Collaborative conversations with Life's wise whispers. James Wells is honoured to offer tarot consultations and circle process hosting/training (enhanced, at times, with other tools & modalities). To book personal appointments and group experiences, contact James at circleways.james@gmail.com

2nd Precept: Do Not Worry

In my previous entry, I spoke about “do not anger”. In a similar vein, this one is about “do not worry”. Again, this is not about denying or repressing an emotion, but rather IS about not attaching to it.

When I observe worry in myself and in my clients, it’s often an addiction to a future that hasn’t happened yet and may not ever happen. It’s a craving to be, have, or do something that is not yet part of one’s experience or a craving to avoid being, having, or doing something that is not yet part of one’s experience.

To be worried about what could, should, or might be is to be absent from what I call herenowness. “Herenowness” is my own term for presence. If I’m worried about something that isn’t even happening right here and now, then the worry is pointless and is wasting my valuable time and energy. If I’m present, then most of the time there’s nothing in my presence about which I need to worry.

Yesterday, I was worried that I couldn’t reach a friend of mine. Then I heard from him. Done. At this very moment I’m in a comfortable chair in a quiet space. I have clothing and a full belly from a good lunch. Outside of the window, a plump bumblebee slowly flies past a crabapple tree’s first hint of blossom. All is well in my presence. No worry.